At Barnardo’s, the work we do to help child victims of sexual exploitation takes time, commitment and expertise. There is no quick fix or instant solution.

With increased pressure on public finances, tough choices have to be made about how, why and where money is invested. I strongly believe that we have a duty to help inform the debate and to ensure that resources are directed towards those young people who are most in need in our society.

We know all too well from our work in this area that the emotional, psychological and physical effect of sexual exploitation on young people is hugely damaging – with the after effects often lasting long into adulthood.